learningforsustainability.net

supporting collaboration, integration & innovation

Research methods and approaches

The human dimensions aspects, or ways that people contribute to and are impacted by global environmental change, are becoming an increasingly important element of major research efforts. Here are some links to research methodology and philosophy in this area, as well as links to journals and discussion lists.

Systems thinking Consistent with systems philosophy, systems thinking concerns an understanding of a system by examining the linkages and interactions between the elements that comprise the whole of the system. This helps us to see the big picture, to see the connectivity between elements in the situation, so as to support joined-up actions.

Managing participation Over the past few years a number of reviewers have pointed to the need for us to get more accurate about our use of the word participation.

Action research Action research is becoming an increasingly important way of gaining increased understanding about ways that groups and organisations can contribute to constructive change.

Using narrative Narrative and stories are increasingly being used to support pluralistic understanding, and to better understand the complexities of different social realities.

Working together for environmental management: the role of information sharing and collaborative learning This on-line PhD thesis by Will Allen represents an inquiry into how an adaptive management ethic and practice that supports the concept of sustainable development can be initiated and implemented in complex, regional or large-scale contexts. An action research inquiry process is used to find improved ways of managing collaborative or multi-stakeholder approaches to environmental management, and to develop an integrated information framework to underpin subsequent decision making.